Ontario Retailers Lose Lottery Licenses After AGCO Investigation

Several convenience store operators in the Greater Toronto Area have lost their lottery seller registrations after the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) found unapproved gambling machines inside their stores. These devices, labeled under the Prime Slot brand, were accessible to minors, triggering concern from the regulator.

AGCO officials discovered the machines resembled slot-style games and relied mostly on chance, even though some manufacturers claimed they were skill-based. The presence of such machines, especially in places where children could access them, raised red flags about safety and legality.

Good to know

• Prime Slot machines were found in convenience stores, violating AGCO rules.
• The devices were accessible to youth, prompting immediate regulatory action.
• Retailers have 15 days to appeal after receiving a Notice of Proposed Order.

In a public statement, AGCO’s Chief Executive Officer Dr. Karin Schnarr said, “Unapproved gambling machines have no business being in convenience stores or other locations, particularly those that are available to children and youth.” She emphasized that these devices go against the commission’s focus on responsible gambling and public safety.

These types of unregulated machines have become more common across North America in recent years. They often operate in legal gray areas and attempt to bypass local gaming regulations. AGCO considers them a direct threat to the integrity of Ontario’s regulated gambling market.

The commission reminded all operators that any gambling product or promotional effort must follow the Registrar’s Standards for Gaming. It also warned that it would continue to enforce these rules to maintain consumer trust and protect vulnerable groups.

Retailers who received a Notice of Proposed Order can appeal to the Licence Appeal Tribunal within 15 days. The AGCO retains the right to revoke or deny registrations if a business is not aligned with the law or public interest.

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